Mold In The Workplace

Mold can affect the look, smell and eventually the structural integrity of a building.

Mold is a very important part of our environment. Without mold, we would not have foods and medicines like cheese and penicillin. Mold also plays a major role in nature by breaking down organic matter like fallen trees, dead animals and dead leaves. However, indoor mold should be avoided, as it usually has an adverse effect. In fact, the exposure to mold can cause a variety of health problems.

Mold can affect the look, smell and eventually the structural integrity of a building. They grow in warm, damp and humid conditions. They reproduce by making spores. These spores can survive harsh conditions, conditions that do not promote mold growth.

Many people are sensitive to molds. Allergies to mold can cause congestion, eye irritation, wheezing and rashes or other skin irritations. However, others have severe allergies to mold that can cause difficulty with breathing. If someone already has a lung disease, exposure to mold can complicate or worsen the condition. People with asthma are often very sensitive to indoor mold exposure, even being the cause of an asthma attack.

There are many work environments that can have high mold exposures such as farms, saunas, shipyards, construction areas and flower shops. However, it is often the maintenance, or lack of, that creates mold in the work environment. Some reasons why mold may grow in the workplace:

• If plumbing leaks or leaks in a buildings structure are not repaired.
• When a building doesn’t have regular HVAC inspections or the air filters are not regularly changed.
• If there is not adequate drainage around a building.
• If the ventilation in kitchens, bathrooms or of moisture-generating appliances are not up to code.

St. Louis Workers Compensation Lawyers

If you believe that you are ill because of being exposed to mold in the workplace, you should first consult with your doctor to determine the best way to protect your health. It is then important to let your employer know of the situation. However, if the issue remains unresolved and the problem infringes on your workplace safety, contact the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. Our legal team has a strong history of helping injured workers get the medical attention and financial compensation that they need. Contact our St. Louis, Missouri workers compensation law firm to ensure that your rights are protected. Please call (314) 361-4300 for a free consultataion. You can also complete our Online Case Evaluation Form.

Workplace Injury and Accident Causes

photo credit: xJason.Rogersx